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Equality and diversity

Harlow Council is committed to the principles of equality of opportunity, fairness and quality for all, both in the services that it provides to the community and in its role as an employer. We believe this can be better achieved by a workforce that values and reflects diversity.

Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 replaced previous anti-discrimination laws with a single Act. It simplified the law, by making the existing equality laws simpler, more effective and easier to understand. The Act introduced a Public Sector Equality Duty, which applies to public bodies and others carrying public functions, for example local councils, police, hospitals, schools and fire service.

It requires that a 'due regard' is given to the need to:

eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct prohibited by the Equality Act 2010;

advance equality of opportunity between people who share a relevant protected characteristic and those who do not share it; and

foster good relations between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it

The general duty is supported by specific duties that require:

an annual publication of relevant information that demonstrates compliance with the Equality Duty

Disability Confident

We are a Disability Confident Committed employer, which means our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible - applicants with a disability who meet the criteria of a job will be guaranteed an interview. We also support any existing employee who acquires a disability or long term health condition, enabling them to stay in work.

Religious holidays and festivals

As an increasingly diverse community, it is important that we are all aware of festivals and events of significance to members of our community and are able to either participate or respect others' observance.